England captain and Bayern Munich striker, Harry Kane, has become the first reigning Ballon d’Or winner to miss out on selection in the FIFPRO Men’s World XI since the award was introduced in 2005.

The 2026 team was announced on Monday, November 9, following a voting exercise involving 19,806 professional footballers from 73 countries.

Kane, who won the 2026 Ballon d’Or last month, was among the 26 shortlisted players but failed to secure enough votes to make the final selection.

He received 27.6 per cent of the votes among forwards, finishing fifth behind Erling Haaland, Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal, who all made the team.

The Bayern Munich striker enjoyed an impressive 2025–2026 campaign, scoring 61 goals for the German club and helping it win the Bundesliga and domestic cup double. He also scored six goals as England reached the World Cup semi-finals.

Meanwhile, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi returned to the World XI for the first time since 2023, extending his record appearances to 18.

Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal also made history as the first player to earn two World XI selections before turning 20.

The final men’s team features Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, defenders Achraf Hakimi, Pau Cubarsí and Nuno Mendes, while Jude Bellingham, Rodri and Vitinha occupy the midfield.

Haaland, Mbappé, Messi and Yamal complete the forward line.

The FIFPRO World XI is selected exclusively by professional footballers, making it distinct from the Ballon d’Or, which is decided through votes from international football journalists.